Former Ole Miss head coach Hugh Freeze has been a candidate to join Tennessee’s staff and was in full swing last Friday. After UT Trustees not fully being on board in a Freeze hire, the former Ole Miss head coach remains a free agent on the coaching trail.

Freeze’s name has been associated with Liberty’s head coaching job after Turner Gill resigned from his position Monday. On the ninth day of the search, Vols Wire discussed Freeze with Liberty officials.

Vols Wire has been told that Gill’s resignation was not a surprise for his family, but was for Liberty administration. A Flames coach also told Vols Wire Monday night that he was surprised about Gill’s announcement. Liberty officials tell Vols Wire that they would like to move quick in finding a head coach, especially with recruiting in full swing.

When asked about Freeze potentially being hired by Liberty as head coach, officials told Vols Wire that they are excited about the future of the program, but did not comment on Freeze specifically.

Sources have also told Vols Wire that Freeze would ideally like to be a head coach right now and that Tennessee was in prime position last week with the former Ole Miss head coach. Freeze is also keeping all options open in offensive coordinator discussions.

Liberty told Vols Wire that they will address Gill’s resignation and the head coaching search at 12:30 p.m. ET Tuesday.